Digital wellbeing for small business owners

From managing day-to-day operations to doing marketing and customer service, running a business can make you feel there's little time to focus on your own wellbeing.

As you rely more and more on digital tools for nearly every aspect of business, it's crucial to address digital wellbeing so you can preserve your mental health and make sure your business continues to succeed.

So, how can you make sure your relationship with technology is helping rather than hindering your productivity?

Here are some practical tips and advice on how to achieve digital wellbeing in your business.

What is digital wellbeing?

Digital wellbeing is about making sure technology serves you, rather than letting it take over your life.

It's not just about using tech efficiently – it's about managing how you interact with it to avoid burnout, stress and distraction.

The goal is to find a healthy balance between embracing the digital tools that help you run your business and setting boundaries to maintain focus and personal wellbeing.

Digital wellbeing is a spectrum. On one side, you have digital addiction and overuse, and on the other side, complete disconnection or digital detox.

The sweet spot lies in mindful and intentional use of technology, or "digital flourishing". This is where you use digital technologies in ways that are beneficial, efficient and aligned with your values.

How focus can boost your productivity

When you run a small business, staying productive is key. But getting distracted is really easy.

Research has shown that multitasking actually decreases productivity – our brains simply aren't built to do two cognitive tasks at once.

Instead, we engage in task switching, where we flip between tasks. When that happens, it can take up to 23 minutes to regain focus after an interruption.

Here are some steps you can take to help improve your focus:

• Limit digital distractions: Turn off notifications or use apps like Forest to help you stay focused. With Forest, you can set a timer for focused work. If you use your phone during that time, your tree will stop growing – it's a visual incentive to stay off your device.

• Track your screen time: Both Google and Apple offer digital wellbeing tools where you can see how much time you're spending on apps and websites. Use this data to identify areas where you can cut back.

• Declutter your workspace: Both physical and digital clutter can cause mental overload. Organise your computer desktop, clear your email inbox and unsubscribe from newsletters you no longer need to receive.

Mental load and digital clutter

One challenge that many small business owners face is the feeling of mental overload.

This is often the result of digital clutter – files, emails, tabs and notifications that we're constantly juggling.

When left unchecked, digital clutter can have a similar effect to physical clutter. It can increase stress, lower productivity and cause decision fatigue.

You can combat this by doing the following:

• Schedule regular decluttering sessions: Set aside time each week or month to organise your digital files, clean out your inbox and close unnecessary browser tabs. A tidy digital space can clear your mind and give you a sense of accomplishment.

• Set boundaries for digital consumption: Make it a habit to check emails only once or twice a day, or create automatic email responses to manage expectations around your availability. This helps you stop checking your devices constantly and focus on what matters.

Mindfully managing your digital time

The average adult spends over six hours a day on digital devices. For many small business owners, that number is even higher.

This constant screen time can lead to digital fatigue, which affects both your physical health (for example, eye strain, bad posture) and mental health (such as anxiety or stress).

Here are a few techniques to reduce screen time:

• Use the "Do Not Disturb" mode: If you're in a zone of deep work, turn on this feature to prevent incoming notifications from interrupting you.

• Use productivity techniques: Consider using the Pomodoro technique – 25-minute work intervals followed by a short break. This method helps keep your focus sharp while making sure you take regular breaks.

Prioritising your mental and physical health

Owning a small business means it's easy to neglect your physical and mental wellbeing in favour of doing what needs doing.

However, a lack of self-care can lead to burnout, stress and decreased productivity. Take the time to step away from your screen and recharge. Consider these tips:

• Integrate movement into your day: Sitting for long periods can cause physical discomfort. Take regular breaks, stretch or go for a walk. You could even try integrating mindful practices like yoga or meditation to help you unwind.

• Set digital boundaries: When you're off the clock, try to resist checking your phone or email. By setting clear boundaries for when you'll be "on" and "off" digitally, you can improve your work-life balance and reduce stress.

Why your customer's digital wellbeing matters

As much as your own digital wellbeing is important, so is your customer's.

People are increasingly aware of their digital health and your business can stand out by respecting their time and digital wellbeing. Here's how:

• Create a user-friendly website: Make sure your website is easy to navigate, with clear information that doesn't overwhelm visitors.

• Reduce the digital clutter on your site: Offer a streamlined, simple experience with less distraction. For example, avoid pop-ups and overly complex forms.

• Be mindful of how frequently you provide content: Instead of bombarding customers with too much information, curate your communication. Use clear, valuable messages to help them make decisions without feeling overwhelmed.

Final thoughts

Digital wellbeing doesn't happen overnight. It's a process of making intentional choices to manage your relationship with technology in a way that supports your business and personal life.

Here are some first steps to take today:

• Track your screen time: Look at how much time you're spending on apps, and decide if that's in line with your goals.

• Set boundaries: Choose times when you'll disconnect from your devices and make them non-negotiable.

• Declutter: Start small by organising your digital files or clearing your email inbox.

By incorporating these tips into your routine, you'll begin to develop a healthier relationship with technology. This will ultimately benefit both your wellbeing and your business's success. Stay curious and keep experimenting with what works best for you. 

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